Checklist for parents

So your schoolie is finally heading off for a well-earned break. This is great for them, but getting the balance between allowing them some freedom to celebrate while ensuring your own peace of mind (by knowing where they are, if they're safe and who they're with etc) is often a bit of a juggling act.

Here are some things that parents might wish to discuss with their schoolies before they head off for schoolies week celebrations:

Itinerary

Do you know the dates that your schoolie will be away?

Are they in the same place for the whole time or are there different destinations?

Are there any key dates where special events or activities are taking place e.g. parties, organised tours?

Do you know what friends they are travelling/staying with while they're away?

Have you arranged for them to call you periodically to let you know they're okay? Have you designated days/times when they will call?

Getting there and around

What travel arrangements have been made for getting to the schoolies destination(s)? Does your schoolie need help with transport?

How will they get around when they get there? See our Getting Around page for info about driving, public transport and taxis.

Have they arranged 'designated drivers' or alternative transport if they plan to party late, drink alcohol etc.? Contacts for taxi services at the main Victorian schoolies destinations are on our Public Transport & Taxis page.

Do they have extra money in case emergency transport is needed?

Accommodation

What is the name and address of the accommodation venue? Is the accommodation confirmed? Our Accommodation section has a range of accommodation ideas and tips.

Has the accommodation been paid for? If not, does your schoolie have enough money to pay for their share of the accommodation costs?

Are there contact details for an on-site manager or other adult providing the accommodation?

Does the accommodation provider have your contact details? Have you been in contact with the accommodation provider or site manager?

Emergency contacts

Are you able to contact your schoolie at any time in case of an emergency? A mobile phone number or the accommodation manager's phone number are often the best contacts to have.

Do they know how to contact you at any time they feel unsure, concerned or need help?

Do they know to dial 000 in case of an emergency? Check out what to do in an emergency on our If things go wrong page.

Do they have a list of other useful contacts? See our Contacts page for a list of useful contacts.

Parties and celebrations

Have you talked about safe partying with your schoolie? Check out our Safe Partying pages for tips and information.

Will they be attending any private parties? Have you had contact with the adult(s) providing the party? Are you aware of the security arrangements and if the police have been notified? Will alcohol and other substances be present/consumed/used?

Health, well being and relationships

Have you discussed safe sex practices and the risks involved? See our Health and Relationships pages for information.

Have you reminded your schoolie to eat well and get some rest - even if they are partying hard? You'll find some healthy eating tips on our Looking after Yourself page.

Do they know what to do if they are sick or injured? Our If Things Go Wrong page can help.

Money

Has your schoolie worked out a budget for their holiday? See our Money pages for tips.

Do they have extra money to use in emergencies? Do they have a safe place to leave and/or access this money?

This checklist was adapted from information provided by John Hendry, Director of Student Welfare, Geelong Grammar School .